Asian dramas like
Goodbye My Princess Directors Cut

For generations, the Gu and Fan families have been rivaling each other in the embroidery industry. In a bid to secure a male successor for their family business, the Gu family exchanged their baby daughter with the Shen family's son in secret. Unexpectedly, the daughter they gave away blossomed into a renowned embroidery expert, while the son they received in return brought misfortune to their business... (DramaWiki)

Taking place in Chang'an, China at the start of the Han Dynasty, Meiren Xinji is a fictionalized portrayal of Empress Dou and her significant impact on the rule of Emperor Wen. Her contributions in the royal court played a crucial role in the establishment of the Rule of Wen and Jing.

Taking place during the Warring States Period, the narrative centers on a remarkable prodigy with a mysterious background. Similar to a chess grandmaster, Wang Chan orchestrates events during turbulent times to suppress rebellion and bolster his nation's power, eventually earning the revered title of Gui Gu Zi. In 390 BC, Wang Cuo aids the Crown Prince of Wei in thwarting a coup, leading to the exile of Wei Huan and the escape of Wu Qi to Chu. Following a momentous victory, Wang Cuo faces retaliation from Wu Qi, who seeks to claim Sun Tzu's The Art of War for himself. Surrounding the manor with five hundred soldiers, Wu Qi massacres all within. Despite the tragedy, Madame Wang gives birth to Wang Chan, who grows up to become a skilled political strategist.

A gentle and intelligent young lady named He Lan Ming Yu develops a close relationship with the 9th Prince, Xiao Cheng Xu. When rumors circulate about Cheng Xu's demise, Ming Yu is compelled to wed his elder brother, Xiao Cheng Rui. As Cheng Xu assists Cheng Rui in establishing a prosperous nation, feelings of envy arise between them. Upon uncovering the truth about his mother's tragic end, Cheng Xu seeks retribution by scheming to seize the throne. However, before he can do so, Cheng Rui passes away, leaving his son, Xiao Qi Yuan, to ascend the throne. Cheng Xu supports Qi Yuan while endeavoring to reconcile with Ming Yu. Nevertheless, Qi Yuan harbors animosity towards Cheng Xu, particularly upon discovering his uncle's illicit relationship with his mother, causing Ming Yu to struggle in repairing their bond.

During the transition from the Qin Dynasty to the Han Dynasty, the Chu-Han Contention unfolded with both tragedy and heroism. General Li Cang, serving under Liu Bang, sustained severe injuries during the conflict and stumbled upon Fengzhen near Lake Yunmeng by chance. This unexpected visit by Li Cang had a profound impact on the lives of several young individuals in the village. Xin Zhui, a young girl, came to the rescue of the injured and unconscious Li Cang, who was then entrusted to her care by her dying father. This sudden turn of events led to Xin Zhui becoming the general's wife, while her neighbor Fu Shen took on the role of protecting her and transformed into a chivalrous knight. Additionally, a prostitute named Nan Shi was captivated by Liu Bang, leading him down a path of pursuing fame and wealth. Both a 34-episode TV version and a 40-episode DVD version of this story are available.

A romantic tale unfolds when the 9th Princess of Western Liang, Xiao Feng, is sent to the Central Plains to enter into a marriage alliance with the Crown Prince. Leaving her old life behind, she becomes the Crown Princess, wedded to the cunning Crown Prince, who holds the second highest position in the realm. The Eastern Palace is fraught with danger, and the Prince, despite having a favored concubine, must marry for political purposes. As their lives intertwine, they navigate a treacherous world of power struggles, with hidden memories waiting to resurface.

In 1941, a group of Chinese soldiers, under the leadership of Pan Tiande, were defeated by the Japanese forces. They sought refuge in the Soviet Union by seeking assistance from the Soviet army. Officer Natasha took on the responsibility of training them. Through the subsequent military engagements, Pan's patriotism and courage deeply touched Natasha, leading to a romantic relationship between them. Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China, Pan chose to contribute to the country as a mechanic, while Natasha pursued a career as a Soviet mechanic specialist after completing her education. As they were preparing for their wedding, Natasha received orders to return to the Soviet Union, resulting in a heart-wrenching departure. Natasha later wrote to Pan, informing him that she had settled near the border, eagerly awaiting his return.

Qu Yuan, a gifted child from a respectable family, finds himself in an unexpected romance with Mo Chou Nu, a slave. Their love is hindered by their social differences, leading them to face numerous challenges as they navigate through political intrigues and palace schemes in their quest to be together. The narrative also chronicles Qu Yuan's gradual efforts to protect his nation.

In Wangsha Village, Macau, a determined young man named Lin Wei Liang courageously revolted against colonial authority by assassinating Shavard, the Portuguese colonial governor of Macau, thus symbolizing Macau's fight for independence

In order to escape her abusive stepmother, Lu Zhen decides to seek refuge in the palace as a servant. Due to her exceptional pottery-making skills, she quickly rises in status. Despite capturing the affection of crown prince Gao Zhan, their love is thwarted by societal barriers and envious adversaries. Lu Zhen dedicates herself to politics and aids Gao Zhan in overcoming a coup. Although she cannot become his empress, Gao Zhan appoints her as the female prime minister, the highest position in the kingdom.

The series follows the story of Princess Tai Ping, the offspring of China's sole empress, Wu Ze Tian.

The narrative focuses on the selection of Yang Yu Huan, a commoner, to join the Emperor's concubines. In contrast to typical historical dramas centered on warfare or fame, this series highlights the romantic relationship between Yang Gui Fei and Emperor Ming of Tang.

The film depicts the real-life events during Emperor Wu's rule in the Han Dynasty, highlighting his triumphs, setbacks, life journey, and the brutal truths of existence. The screenplay drew inspiration from Ban Gu's "Book of Han" and Sima Qian's "History Records."

Princess Jung Myung was the last living direct descendant of King Seon Jo, and her arrival was joyously celebrated throughout the palace. She possessed the most charming smile imaginable for an infant. Queen In Mok felt a sense of relief upon giving birth to a girl rather than a boy. The seer Nam Sa Go had foretold that the child she bore would emerge as the true sovereign of the Joseon Dynasty, a king of kings; however, the existence of a princess contradicted that prophecy. Unfortunately, the chaotic period that followed took a severe toll on Princess Jung Myung. After King Seon Jo's passing, Gwang Hae took the throne, and his first actions were to eliminate Prince Yeong Chang and expel Queen In Mok from the palace. Princess Jung Myung soon became his next target. Realizing the threat to her daughter's safety, In Mok arranged for her to go into hiding. Nevertheless, assassins managed to find Jung Myung. Thanks to the brave sacrifice of her bodyguard, she escaped on a boat that drifted aimlessly in the ocean. Meanwhile, her bodyguard and nanny set their own boat on fire, sacrificing themselves to deceive the assassins. Jung Myung witnessed the flames engulfing her nanny and protector. Adrift at sea, she lost consciousness and was rescued by a merchant vessel bound for Dejima in Japan, where she was sold into slavery. To endure the harsh conditions, she concealed her royal identity and buried her memories of being a princess, focusing solely on her desire for vengeance. Disguised as a boy, Jung Myung labored in a sulfur mine but found a glimmer of hope in the form of a friendship with Ja Gyung, which helped her to endure. However, her ultimate goal remained clear: to return to Joseon and wreak havoc on Gwang Hae, the man who had taken everything from her. Eventually, an opportunity presented itself. She began trading information and secrets within the sulfur mines. Utilizing her strategic position, she followed the Joseon delegation back to her homeland. At last, her long-held dream of returning to Joseon had been realized… (MBC)

This series follows the story of Empress Dowager Feng, a formidable ruler of the Northern Wei Dynasty.

Narrates the tale of the sole female ruler in Chinese history who held the position of Empress Regnant. Based on the life of Wu Ze Tian.

Set in the historical backdrop of Emperor Kangxi's reign, this period drama explores themes of romance, betrayal, loyalty, and intrigue within the palace walls. The focus is on the transformation of a Princess from a carefree, naive young lady to a mature woman, wife, and mother, delving deep into the complexities of love, commitment, and happiness. The intertwined love stories of other characters add depth to the narrative, prompting viewers to question the sacrifices demanded by love and loyalty. (Viki)

Yuming Ge Ge holds a special place in her father Emperor Qianlong's heart. Despite her fearless demeanor in the palace, she harbors a deep fear of caterpillars. While mingling with people, Yuming encounters peers of a similar age. As she matures, Yuming develops feelings for the esteemed official Jin Hong, unaware that he is actually her half-brother, a result of a past mistake made by her father. Despite their genuine love for each other, their blissful ignorance is shattered when Qianlong intervenes and arranges for Yuming to marry Yin De, the son of He Shen. The shocking revelation leaves Yuming devastated, leading to a tragic attempt at suicide with Jin Hong. Miraculously, the attempt fails, leaving Yuming in a deranged state and Jin Hong with amnesia. Meanwhile, rumors begin to swirl in the palace about Yin De's true identity as Qianlong's illegitimate son.

This story delves into the intense power struggle among imperial consorts during the Qing Dynasty. The Forbidden Palace is divided into two factions: Chuan Fei and Xiang Bin. Fearing the loss of the emperor's favor, Chuan seeks a replacement in the imperial concubine selection to rival Xiang for the position of Empress. Si Lin Chun escapes on her wedding day to participate in the selection and encounters a man named Ding An along the way. Jing Zhen and Lord Yi Hui, who have been close since childhood, are in love, but Jing decides to become a beloved concubine for the sake of improving relations with Mongolia. Desperate, Lord Yi Hui constantly seeks out Jing, while Si finds comfort in Lord Yi Hui. The complicated love triangle adds further chaos to the Forbidden Palace.

Feng Ning Wan serves as a guardian for the Dowager Empress and possesses a unique ability to transform her appearance into that of others effortlessly. She is tasked with masquerading as a princess to wed Minister Chen Yu. Despite Chen Yu feigning weakness and illness, he is actually a skilled martial artist. As they navigate the complexities of married life, they develop a deep appreciation and love for each other. However, their relationship is tested by deceit and the quest for power.

Jai Bao Yu, a young man from a prosperous feudal family, found himself surrounded by powerful women. His romantic entanglements with his cousins Lin Dai Yu and Xue Bao Chai unfolded during his family's efforts to maintain their power and status. ~ Taken from Cao Xue Qin's novel "Dream of the Red Chamber".

During the sixth century in China, the Emperor of Great Liang orders the unfair execution of his brother-in-law Marshal Lin Xie, the Lin family, 70,000 army soldiers, and Crown Prince Qi

Mu Zhuo Hua, a woman born out of wedlock, challenges societal norms by running away from her wedding and pursuing a career as a female government official

Describes the love story between Dong Ge and Huang Tai Ji. Dong Ge, hailed as the most exquisite woman in Later Jin (Jurchen), was born with a prophecy stating she could either usher in prosperity or chaos to the world.

Feng Zhi Wei, the disfavored daughter of the Qiu Family, is forced to escape under unfortunate circumstances. In debt to the 6th prince Ning Yi, Zhi Wei disguises herself as a man to enroll in the prestigious Qingming Academy and becomes the top scholar to the Emperor. She remains loyal and truthful to the ruling Emperor amidst the power struggle among the princes, all while developing feelings for Ning Yi as he delves into his past and seeks vengeance for his loved ones. Despite their genuine love, can they navigate through the deceitful plots and numerous obstacles in their path? Based on the book "Huang Quan" by Tianxia Guiyuan.

A proud third son from a prominent family becomes infatuated with a beautiful young woman upon first sight and goes to great lengths to pressure her into marrying him, despite her feelings for another man. Initially resistant to their forced marriage, she rejects his affection and advances, but their love story gradually blossoms as they face challenges during times of war and turmoil. However, complications arise when her former love returns as her husband's assistant.

Wang Xuan and Xiao Qi enter into a marriage of convenience to gain influence, but their feelings for each other deepen as they unite to defend their land. Facing a corrupted imperial family and indifferent nobles, Wang Xuan, a strong-willed woman, and Xiao Qi, a man from humble beginnings, find themselves entwined in a prophecy that ties their destinies to the empire's future. Despite being wed to Xiao Qi by her father, Wang Xuan experiences betrayal when he is unexpectedly called away on their wedding night. Kidnapped by the Helan Prince as an act of revenge, Wang Xuan comes to appreciate Xiao Qi's dedication to peace, bringing them closer together. Amid power struggles between the Wang and Xie clans, as well as threats of treachery and rebellion, Wang Xuan risks everything to protect the third prince and secure their future, placing her hope in Xiao Qi to bring about salvation. This story is adapted from the novel "Emperor's Conquest" by Mei Yu Zhe.

Li Ni, the grandson of the emperor, finds himself in charge of defending the border and suppressing a rebellion

Prince Murong Jing He from the powerful Great Yan Empire recaptures Qingzhou, only to see the city destroyed by a fire shortly after. Rumors begin to circulate that he deliberately set the fire in response to a perceived betrayal, leading to him being labeled as the "Butcher General." Amidst the chaos, Mei Lin suffers the loss of her family and swears to seek vengeance. She enlists in the Shadow Works, undergoing rigorous training to become an assassin. Her initial objective is to assassinate Murong Jing He, so she enters his court in disguise as a Xiyan beauty. However, she soon uncovers that the one pulling the strings behind her mission is none other than Murong Jing He himself.

Intern Ji Xian Yun from a contemporary medical institution unexpectedly finds herself transported back in time to inhabit the body of the Chancellor's second daughter, who attempted suicide to avoid marriage. The Chancellor's elder daughter rejects her engagement to Prince Ming Wang due to his peculiar illness causing a distended stomach. Ji Xian Yun is coerced into marrying Ming Wang against her will by her own family.

This drama explores the life of King Jeong Jo, the 22nd ruler of Joseon, who is celebrated in Korean history as one of the nation's finest kings, known for his compassion for the people and his governance aimed at benefiting the common folk.

The tale of an enchanting queen who sacrifices her love for the welfare of her subjects. This biographical account focuses on Queen Seon Deok, who began her life as a princess and eventually ascended to the throne of Silla, leaving a legacy of remarkable accomplishments.

This drama revolves around the romantic relationship between King Jung Jong and Queen Dan Kyung, who was both crowned and ousted within a single week due to opposing political factions that influenced the king’s governance. As per historical accounts, following the queen's removal from the palace, the king would visit the outer royal pavilion daily, letting out a sigh as he looked towards a mountain in her direction. In response to this, she placed a red skirt, her favorite attire from her time in the palace, on a rock on the mountainside as a way to reassure him of her well-being and her enduring feelings for him.

A historical drama, blending fact and fiction, centered on the aspirations, ascension, and decline of both real and imaginary figures related to Yi Bang Won. Yi Bang Won served as the third monarch of Korea's Joseon Dynasty and was the progenitor of King Se Jong the Great. He played a crucial role in assisting his father, King Tae Jo, in founding the Joseon Dynasty.

After being involved in a car accident, Zhang Xiao finds herself transported back in time to inhabit the body of Maertai Ruoxi, a 16-year-old noblewoman from the Manchu tribe living in the Qing Dynasty. Despite her awareness of the dangers of meddling in palace politics surrounding the throne's succession, Ruoxi becomes entangled in the power struggle due to her feelings for someone and the affection she receives from others. This story is inspired by Tong Hua's novel "Bu Bu Jing Xin."

The narrative takes place during the Northern Song dynasty and centers around Sheng Ming Lan, the unloved sixth daughter of an official who was born to a concubine. Raised by her grandmother after her mother's early passing, Ming Lan learns to conceal her intelligence and resorts to clever tactics to navigate the treacherous environment of her family, where deceit and lack of familial affection are prevalent. Her path crosses with Gu Ting Ye, the second son of a wealthy marquis household set to inherit both riches and a noble title. Unlike Ming Lan, Ting Ye is transparent in his actions and falls prey to the schemes laid against him, leading to his downfall. Ming Lan and Ting Ye team up, employing cunning strategies and bold initiatives to rise in status and seek justice against those who have wronged them.

The Forbidden City, a historic imperial capital, was shaken by Feng Yu Xiang's bombing. The last emperor of the Qing dynasty, Pu Yi, fled hastily to Tianjin with his empress and concubine, seeking refuge in Jingyuan. The nation has changed irreversibly, and the royal family's fate is uncertain. Originally intending to appoint Wen Xiu as empress and Wan Rong as his concubine, Pu Yi's plans were altered by Empress Dowager Long Yu's interference. This decision sparked a significant concubine revolution in Chinese history.

During the 18th century in Korea, Prince Yi San is haunted by his father's murder and aims to become a compassionate ruler who reforms the kingdom's laws. He is next in line to the throne after his harsh grandfather, the current king, passes away. At court, he meets Sung Deok Im, a spirited and intelligent young woman. While Yi San falls in love with her and proposes she become his concubine, Sung Deok Im struggles with the limitations and duties of royal life. As their love grows, she sees the potential for positive change in the kingdom through their relationship.

The Northern Wei Dynasty was destroyed overnight, leaving Princess Feng Xin Er as an orphan. Despite narrowly escaping death, she finds herself in enemy territory where she takes on the identity of Li Wei Young, the Prime Minister's daughter. Enduring numerous challenges, she ultimately uses her intelligence and commitment to justice to rise as a formidable figure and find love.

During the 9th Century Tang Dynasty in China, the Emperor is engaged in a fierce power struggle with a group of powerful eunuchs who hold significant influence within the court. In an attempt to retaliate, he orders the assassination of their leader, Qiu Shi Liang, but the plan fails. The eunuchs seek revenge by killing the Emperor's loyal minister and his entire family, except for his twin daughters, Cheng RuoYu and Qiu Yan Zhi, who manage to escape. With the eunuchs now controlling the court, the Emperor is reduced to a mere figurehead. While the minister's daughters remain hidden, they each follow different paths. Yan Zhi seeks vengeance by infiltrating Qiu Shi Liang's household, while Ruo Yu joins a group of soldiers led by young Emperor Qi Yan, who is determined to eliminate the eunuchs. Ruo Yu is willing to risk her life to assist him, even if it means confronting danger head-on. As their bond grows stronger, the question remains: will the Emperor trust Ruo Yu once he uncovers her true identity and her ties to his enemy? (

The drama portrays the early years of Li Yu Qin, the final noblewoman in Chinese history and one of the last wives of Pu Yi, the last emperor of the Qing dynasty. It delves into the complexities of their relationship and the tale of an ordinary Chinese woman who challenged imperial authority to seek happiness. Set between 1942 and 1957, the series draws from Aisin Gioro Pu Yi's life, focusing on the emotional rollercoaster between Pu Yi and Noble Lady Fu, his ultimate noblewoman.

The latest Gong drama unfolds a fresh romantic tale during the Yongzheng era. Lian Er pleads with her father to allow her entry into the palace to meet the seventeenth prince, Yun Li. The two develop feelings for each other and plan to wed. However, when Yun Li's mentor, Alinga, faces trouble, Yun Li is compelled to marry Alinga's daughter to rescue him. A devastated Lian Er strives to protect herself within the palace, yearning to lead a normal life outside its walls. Unforeseen to her, she becomes entangled in a power struggle orchestrated by influential figures and betrayed by someone she once considered a sister. Alliances are forged, debts are incurred, and just as Lian Er is on the brink of despair, she unintentionally attracts the attention of Yongzheng and is appointed as one of his consorts. Everything suddenly becomes more complex - if she stops now, she will suffer, but she fears losing herself if she persists. She opts to have faith in the light and trust that her determination will guide her through the turmoil.

When marriages are arranged within the upper class, it often results in people getting hurt. Zhao An Hua finds himself in a situation where he is compelled to marry a daughter from the Xue family due to Madam Xue's ambitions for power and riches. As a result, An Hua's former lover is heartbroken and seeks vengeance by marrying the infamous gangster, Fu Zhen Jia. Will love be able to triumph over the pain and envy brought on by these strategic unions?

The series follows the journey of Comrade Chen Pi Xian as he navigates the reform and opening up period in Hubei Province while serving as the provincial party secretary

In the novel "The Ninth Widow," we follow the life of Wang Pu-tao, a woman from a remote village in Central China. Wang tragically loses her family in a flood when she is just a child, and is later sold into servitude before being widowed at the young age of 14. Despite her hardships, Wang harbors a fugitive man (her father-in-law) in her cellar for three decades, providing him with care and protection during times of political turmoil, famine, and other disasters.